World War II Real-Time Stratey: “Hearts of Iron III” Gets “Semper Fi”

Virtual Programming has released Semper Fi, the newest expansion for the real-time strategy game Hearts of Iron III. The expansion for the game introduces new cooperation capabilities with NPC allies and an improved artificial intelligence for computer-controlled countries.

“Want greater cooperation with allies than was previously possible?” the company wrote. “Now you can request troops from allied nations, convince them to attack specific targets, and more. Improved artificial intelligence brings those capabilities to life as computer-controlled nations launch multi-stage invasions, pursue more strategic production of resources, and marshal large naval task forces, among other activities.”

The game also adds hundreds of new historical events, and the ability to compare WWII’s actual historical timeline to the alternate timeline you create in the game. Players can also designate a battleship or battle cruiser as the “Pride of the Fleet,” which adds special bonuses to that ship with repercussions for changing the designation or losing the ship at sea.

Semper Fi supports multiplayer combat for up to 32 players, hidden victory conditions chosen by game leaders at the start of the game (reach 12 of them and win), the ability to define theaters of war, new map modes, and more.